Lighting to minimize Algae

[JDanneker]

I am noticing an increase in algae growth (red diatom, green bubble and green hair) in my tanks. During my water changes, I pull as much green hair as possible and try to remove the bubble (most of the time they burst).

My Nitrates and Phosphate are at 0. I do leave my lights on approximately 12 hours per day due to work schedules, feeding schedules and I like to watch my critters when I get home.

Current algae cleaning crew:

2 Turbo Snails
3 Astrea Snails
5 Nerite Snails
6 Hermit Crabs (3 ea. red and blue legs)
2 Emerald Crabs
2 Sally lightfoot crabs

I am planning to add some more hermit crabs and Cerith Snails this weekend.

Also, if I set up timers, can I turn off the lights during the day and not disrupt my fish and corals. I was planning to set up the timers for 4 hrs in the am and 4 hrs in the pm so I can enjoy my tank when I get home.

thanks, Jeff

 

[jojo22]

Just a few suggestions. Maybe just set your timmers to go on before you get home till just before bed? Shortining your lightig cycle will definately help. As far as the bubble algae your emeralds should be able to wipe it out if you shorten your photo cycle. What type of lighting do you have?? Depending on that your photo cycle could be changed by different amounts of time. Or timmers set up for your pleasure in an easier manner.

 

[JDanneker]

jojo22:

Thanks for the info! I have a Corallife 48" lunar light with 4 65 watt bulbs. 2 atinic and 2 white 10K.

 

[jojo22]

My suggestion would be to have them turn on a few hours before you get home.
Depending on what type of corals you are keeping you will only need about 4-6 hours of "lights on" time. Have you considered getting a set of moon lights that way you can also enjoy the nocturnal movements of your tank. may be a great compermise for you.